5 Modes of Local Transportation in Maldives – For a hassle-free holiday

Visiting tourists to the Maldives will find that air travel is the primary mode of transportation when it comes to getting around to and from within the Maldives. Male – the capital island of the country is the main gateway to the archipelago. It serves as a hub for various international flights while also handling a steady volume of domestic flights to other resort islands.  Do note that domestic flights are usually carried out in small propeller planes or the more popular seaplanes. Providers of many an overwater villa in the Maldives such as the likes of OBLU SELECT Sangeli Maldives will be happy to arrange flights for their guests keen to hop between islands.

Upon disembarking at the Velana International Airport in Male, tourists can also easily rely on speedboats for their inter-island transportation.Visiting tourists have the option of booking their speedboat transportation independently. Do note that fares can be quite high and vary depending on the distance to be covered.

For those looking for a more cost-effective option, catching ferry rides will prove best. The inter-island ferry service which is run by The Maldives Transport and Contracting Company – MTCC operates public ferries that connect the isles. While decidedly slower than air travel and speedboats, ferries are a more affordable mode of transportation, especially for budget-conscious travellers.  Taking a ferry ride is also a great way to immerse yourself in the daily life of the island communities. However, it's important to note that the ferry service tends to be off-schedule and can be rather unreliable. Another important point to keep in mind is that ferries do not make stops at resort islands, nor do they operate on Fridays.

Resembling a traditional Arab sailing vessel a Dhoni is a traditional Maldivian wooden boat, which has been an integral part of the island nation’s transportation for centuries.  Today dhonis are still utilised for cargo transportation and fishing.  Many hotels also offer excursions on dhonis – which offers visitors a unique way to explore uninhabited islands. A dhoni ride arranged independently will cost you anywhere between MVR 1,000 to MVR 1,5000.   To hire a dhoni, make your way to the airport ferry jetty located on the eastern end of Boduthakurufaanu Magu.

While hiring a yacht is by no means the usual mode of transport in the Maldives, it is certainly a luxurious way to spice up your tropical getaway. There are plenty of yacht brokers in the country whom you can reach out to arrange for a private charter.

When visiting the capital of the Maldives – Male, hailing a taxi to get around is well advised. Especially during the afternoons thanks to the scorching temperatures experienced in the tropical isles.